SC5054 - Analysing Crime Statistics (2024/25)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2024/25 | ||||||||||||
| Module title | Analysing Crime Statistics | ||||||||||||
| Module level | Intermediate (05) | ||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2024/25(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) | No instances running in the year |
Module summary
This module takes you through the research process in relation to quantitative methodologies from the formulation of a research problem through appropriate collection and analysis of data to the writing-up of results in the form of a research report. The module sets out the research contexts in which this methodology is appropriate and discusses the skills and limitations associated with surveys as an important research method in criminology. At the same time, the module introduces you to the Crime Survey England and Wales as one of the main quantitative data sets on crime in the UK.
Prior learning requirements
Available for Study Abroad? NO
Syllabus
This module will focus on the following key subjects:
● The relevance of quantitative research in criminology.
● What is survey and what is variable.
● Introduction to SPSS.
● Using SPSS for describing and summarising variables (frequencies, measures of central tendency, graphical presentation).
● Using SPSS for conducting bivariate analysis (t-test, ANOVA, correlation and crosstabulation).
● Interpreting results of SPSS analysis and writing a research report.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Each teaching session runs through a three hour long workshop in a computer lab. Tutorial support is offered throughout the module by way of tutor availability during office hours, discussions and email. In workshops you will be actively engaged in practical activities related to quantitative data analysis with support from your tutor. In addition, you will be expected to submit three homeworks that will be an opportunity to receive formative feedback on all stages of your learning.
This module will be supported with relevant WebLearn pages where all lecture and workshop notes, relevant literature, SPSS manuals, and other sources will be available. All sessions will be recorded with Panopto and will be always available to you.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, you will:
1. Develop an informed grasp of the strengths and limitations of survey research.
2. Develop ability to identify and consider the ethical issues which may arise in quantitative research.
3. Develop your competence in using SPSS for quantitative data analysis.
4. Develop your skill in writing reports based on quantitative data analysis.
Assessment strategy
Two summative assessments.
Three short homework tasks – Pass/Fail.
Quantitative analysis report – Due week 14.
Bibliography
Key Reading:
https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/1AA0141C-1B1A-4249-2A9D-FF3BE212C157.html?lang=en&login=1